How Shukr Changes One’s Life – The Importance of Gratitude in Islam

How Shukr Changes One’s Life – The Importance of Gratitude in Islam 

Gratitude—Shukr—is one of the most powerful acts of worship in Islam, yet it is often overshadowed a d forgotten amidst the commotion and busyness of daily life. Our minds plagued by our struggles, ambitions and desires, we often forget to take a step back and express appreciation for the countless blessings surrounding us that have been so graciously bestowed upon us by Allah (SWT). Contrary to popular belief, gratitude is so much more than utter the word "Alhamdulillah", gratitude is more of a mindset, a constant practice and transformative force that moulds our perception of the world, people and our connection with Allah (SWT). Shukr in Islam is a seemingly small but highly significant concept that has been repeatedly mentioned by Allah (SWT) in the Holy Quran, 

وَإِذْ تَأَذَّنَ رَبُّكُمْ لَئِن شَكَرْتُمْ لَأَزِيدَنَّكُمْ ۖ وَلَئِن كَفَرْتُمْ إِنَّ عَذَابِى لَشَدِيدٌۭ

"And ˹remember˺ when your Lord proclaimed, ‘If you are grateful, I will certainly give you more. But if you are ungrateful, surely My punishment is severe." [14:7]

This verse singlehandedly signifies the importance of gratitude for a Muslim. Not only is it a promise for Allah(SWT), the Almighty, but it acts as a strict warning as well. When we are grateful towards our Lord, for all the blessings He has bestowed upon us, Allah(SWT) promises to increase those blessings and add barakah. However, if we choose to neglect our blessings or show signs of ungratefulness, filled with greed for more, we guarantee ourselves the strictest punishment as we have distanced ourselves for Allah's mercy. 

The perfect example and role model for all mankind was the last messenger of Allah (SWT), Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Among the wealth of admirable traits the Prophet (PBUH) possessed, one was his continuous embodiment of gratitude in every aspect of his life. Despite all the extreme and brutal hardships he had to face throughout his prophethood, he never failed to express his gratefulness and appreciation towards Allah (SWT). He would continuously pray and do dhikr, when questioned why he prays so much, despite being guaranteed Jannah, he replied by saying "Should I not be a grateful servant?". This incident is narrated by Al- Mughira, in a reported Hadith as follows, 

"The Prophet (ﷺ) used to stand (in the prayer) or pray till both his feet or legs swelled. He was asked why (he offered such an unbearable prayer) and he said, "should I not be a thankful slave." [Sahih al-Bukhari 1130] 

Similarly, this same Hadith is reported in another compilation of the Prophet's hadith, Mughira b. Shu'ba reported that Allah's Apostle (ﷺ) worshipped so much that his feet were swollen. It was said to him:

"(Why do you undergo so much hardship despite the fact that) Allah has pardoned for you your earlier and later sins? Thereupon he said: May I not (prove myself) to be a grateful servant (of Allah)?" [Sahih Muslim 2819a]

The concept of Shukr in Islam isn't just a simple act, it is a mindset that requires continuous practice to be developed into a habit. Additionally, gratitude towards Allah (SWT) isn't just thanking Him when everything seems fine, when things are going well. It's more about trusting and acknowledging Allah (SWT) wisdom even in the tough times. At times it may seem that things are going wrong or getting out of hand but maintaining your trust in Allah(SWT)'s planning is crucial in times like these. Expressed in a verse of the Holy Quran, 

"....They planned, but Allah also planned. And Allah is the best of planners" [8:30]

Though this verse was revealed in the context of when the disbelievers plotted against the Prophet (PBUH). However, this verse is often referred to as a reminder that Allah’s wisdom and decree surpass all human planning. Every challenge thrown upon us is a test, a lesson and an opportunity to grow. A constant reminder to keep falling in sujood to Allah (SWT) and ask for his help, be grateful to him for whatever you have and whatever you may need. Hardships are not permanent it just requires patience and every moment of patience strengthens our faith, as promised by Allah (SWT) himself, 

فَإِنَّ مَعَ ٱلْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا

"So, surely with hardship comes ease." [94:5]

Let this blog be a reminder to catch a breather, stop stressing about the future and learn to live in the present. Make it a habit to be grateful to Allah (SWT) and constantly turn back to Him and Him only, and surely Allah (SWT) will give you the strength to persevere through your hardships. One of the most profound ways for cultivating gratitude is by Taqwa. 

Taqwa, is the Islamic term for being conscious of Allah (SWT). To constantly be mindful of the existence of Allah. This reminder serves as an ever-present whisper, urging us to be mindful of our actions to avoid sin, or to seek repentance as soon as we've erred. To put it plainly, Taqwa is the inner protection and internal lock which prevents a person from committing sins. There are further types of Taqwa and methods through which your taqwa can be strengthened, two of which are Dhikr and Salah.

Dhikr, or remembrance, is a term that encompasses a wide range of practices in Islam. Linguistically, it means to remember, mention, or invoke. In the Islamic context, it refers to the remembrance of Allah through specific phrases, prayers, or reflections. Dhikr can be performed verbally, mentally, or even physically, as seen in the act of Salah (prayer), which is itself a form of Dhikr. 

The significance of Dhikr is highlighted throughout the Qur'an. One of the clearest references is found in the Holy Quran, where Allah states:

 "So remember Me; I will remember you." [2:152]

This verse highlights the reciprocal nature of Dhikr—when a believer remembers Allah, Allah, in turn, bestows His mercy and blessings upon them. The following verse accentuates how prayer is the most basic route to expressing gratitude while getting guidance, protection, and response from The All Mighty. 

“O you who have believed, seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, Allah is with the patient.” [2:153]

Salah is the simplest form of shukr—an acknowledgment of Allah’s greatness and our dependence on Him. With each sujood, we believers submit ourselves fully to Allah(SWT)'s mercy and recognise that everything we possess is a blessing of his giving. But sometimes, physical discomforts like backache can become a distraction in prayer, preventing us to fully immerse ourselves in worship and gratitude. This is where the Ebadat Prayer Rug with Backrest becomes a life saver. Designed to offer essential back support to those seeking to sit comfortably and immerse themselves in deep connection with their Lord as it is made with extra foam padding to ensure maximum comfort during your prayers. Available in 3 vibrant colors. To top it all off, its foldable and compact feature allows its storage process to be completely hassle-free making it a great addition to your homes. Quickly get your prayer rug and kickstart the addition of new habits in your daily routine.

Islam provides us a perfect framework on how to tackle life but it is important to mention that gratitude isn't just an Islamic principle. Recent scientific studies show that people who prioritize expressing gratitude, through practices such as meditation or yoga, experience lower levels of stress, better sleep and overall improved happiness, ultimately improving their lifestyle. Islam, far ahead of its time, gave Muslims a headstart by promoting gratitude as a principle, through practices such as; daily prayers, Dua, dhikr, and conscious reflection. 

When we make Shukr a habit, we naturally become more content with our situation, surroundings and circumstance. Instead of chasing endless desires and harbouring a sense of greed and restlessness, we are able to find peace and contentment in what we already have. In a reported Hadith of the Prophet (PBUH), narrated by Abu Huraira, 

The Prophet (ﷺ) said, "Wealth is not in having many possessions, but rather (true) wealth is feeling sufficiency in the soul." [Sahih al-Bukhari 6446]